For the first time in the history of the St Charles, Tunapuna, all the ministries of the parish came together to celebrate something other than the Eucharist. On Wednesday, December 13, 2006, we held our first parish Christmas dinner.

Serenaders de’Puna serenade the crowd. Photo courtesy Ricardo Allen

This auspicious gathering was the brainchild of the Stewardship team, which organised and hosted the function. The brand new parish centre, decked to enhance all the beautifully dressed women was packed to capacity.

All enjoyed the traditional Christmas dinner, inclusive of ham, pastelle and turkey, which followed the not-so-traditional appetizers of carambola chow and pineapple chow. Entertainment included carol singing led by Maria Salina as well as solo performances by other members of the parish.

The highlight of the evening however was the parang presentation of “Serenaders de ‘Puna”, an impromptu combination of ‘Puna choir members and three members of San Jose Serenaders.

Our beloved Fr Reggie was on hand to distribute a token gift to every person in attendance and express his pleasure over this gathering which he saw as fostering community and togetherness.

Every ministry represented was asked to raise a toast. Some turned out to be very serious while others were quite hilarious. Congratulations to the Stewardship team. May next year be bigger and better.